Sheree Sheehan Fashions in the Field 2025 interview

Sheree Sheehan is a stylish racewear enthusiast from the Waikato, known for her beautiful use of colour, intricate details and creative flair. Recently named Supreme Winner of Tauranga Crossing Fashions in the Field, Sheree has secured her place in The Ned Prix de Fashion 2026, continuing an impressive journey on the catwalk. Earlier this year she was a Grand Finalist for The Ned Prix de Fashion 2025 and won the Fashions in the Field competition at Ellerslie on Boxing Day 2024.

With her hands-on approach to design and a love for self-expression through fashion, Sheree reflects on her unforgettable Boxing Day win in the lead-in to this year’s event, the creative process behind her looks and what keeps her inspired to compete in racewear competitions.

Winning Fashions in the Field on Boxing Day 2025 is an exciting achievement, what went through your mind in the moment your name was announced?

It’s still my most memorable achievement on the catwalk. I had such a fabulous day, it was actually my first time doing FOTF on Boxing Day and will be a day I’ll never forget! It’s a feeling hard to describe, I loved being in that outfit, it was a real Christmas vibe.

Looking back now, what do you think truly elevated your look to winning territory?

I actually had the bow made for the front of my dress one day before Christmas Eve! I had the outfit on and I felt something was missing. The colours were perfect and everything flowed but it was just lacking some wow factor to pull it all together. I couldn’t quite decide what it was lacking and then did a few test options and then I knew. It’s all about trial and error. And very lucky I have most coloured fabrics and textiles hidden in my closet for my ideas to come to life!

When putting together your racewear look, do you begin with the outfit, the headwear, the colour story or the overall mood you want to convey?

It definitely begins differently every time for me. I have seen millinery that I can see a vision for, and then sometimes I will see some fabric or a specific colour palette I would love to do something with. Pulling things together is so addictive, the best creative outlet!

Do you feel pressure to outdo yourself each time you enter or is it more about self-expression?

I don’t feel any pressure, I genuinely love the whole process of putting together the pieces. My brain is always full of ideas and I’m so lucky to be able to bring them to life. What you love on the day, the judging panel may not, and that’s the way it goes. As long as I’m happy and confident in my design that’s what it’s all about for me.

How far in advance do you begin planning your racewear outfits?

This also varies. And can also depend how much time I have before certain race days. I’m either extremely organised or very last minute! The final earlier this year at Ellerslie I was still sewing things the morning of. Next year’s Champions Day outfit, I have locked and loaded waiting in my closet.

What research goes into your look from runway trends, past winners, designers or millinery inspiration?

I follow plenty of social media from overseas, I love seeing all the talent and certain trends that are developing and what catches your eye. I think it’s important to take some inspiration from the past and present and then develop that into your own personal style.

How do you mentally prepare before stepping onto the runway for the competition?

Usually, a glass of bubbles or two! I tell myself to breathe, no rushing, so the judges get to see the details. At the end of the day, it’s a hobby that I thoroughly enjoy so don’t let myself take it too seriously and just enjoy my time on the runway.

What did your win teach you about your own confidence and creative instincts?

It’s been incredibly valuable mentally, consolidating to have faith in my designs and the way I wear them. There can be a lot of ‘maybe I could change that’ or just general doubt. Confidence really makes your outfit shine. And to be rewarded by other people loving your outfit as much as you do is an incredible feeling.

Some people feel a bit intimidated by Fashions in the Field, what would you say to someone considering entering for the first time and what tips would you give them for the competition?

It feels very unnatural to most, heading up onto that catwalk for the first time. But I can assure everyone it becomes addictive and the people you will meet and the racecourses you will see make for a very enjoyable day! Grab a friend and make a day of it. My good friend who has never even thought of competing, absolutely killed the catwalk at Riccarton. Filled with nerves at the start of the day. Filled with confidence at the end! And now planning for the next FOTF.

What excites you most about Fashions in the Field and what are you looking forward to this Boxing Day at Ellerslie?

It’s my creative outlet. I’ve always loved fashion, design, colours and just being ‘arty’ in general so Fashions in the Field is the perfect escape from reality. Fashion and horses – heavenly! I’m so hoping to get there. My fingers are crossed! We are dairy farmers at a busy time of the year, so hoping to sneak away again. Ellerslie is such a stunning venue and the organizers always outdo themselves.